Equilibrium is a therapeutic riding stable located in Sciota in Eastern Pennsylvania, just north of the Lehigh Valley at the base of the Poconos. It is accredited by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA).
All of the activities are provided by certified and licensed staff with the assistance of volunteers. The volunteers go through 12 hours of training before they are able to assist.
The program that Equilibrium uses is individualized for each participant according to their level and need. The participants begin by learning balance, co-ordination, and perceptual and cognitive skills instead of the traditional riding skills.
At the beginning of the season, each program participant has an individual program planned with goals. As the goals are achieved, the participants "graduate" to the next skill levels on the horse, leading to functional and independent riding within their capabilities.
The participants, through achievements, find a certain type of freedom for themselves through the horseback riding.
This is a wonderful program and it is expanding. Equilibrium is breaking ground to build a new and larger facility in the Lehigh Valley. They are always looking for volunteers to help.
It is such a great feeling when working with the handicapped to see how they improve with time, just by being around the horses and riding. I must say that it not only helps the handicapped, but also those that work with them.
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